Invasive non-native species can have serious negative impacts on native Scottish habitats and species. They can put at risk whole ecosystems – and thus marine biodiversity and our economy – and affect our health.

Early detection is crucial if we’re to try to clear an invasive species that has arrived in our waters. It may be possible to contain or manage populations of a species found only in patchy locations.

Not all the non-native species that arrive in Scottish waters become invasive. Many are present without significant effect.

Impacts on the marine environment

Invasive non-native species in our seas can have significant impacts on both biodiversity and the economy.

Away from their native habitats, invasive species are often able to grow very large and very quickly, and can displace native species. They can become the most dominant species in the area and some can smother other creatures.

Invasive species can have impacts on our marine industries, for example:

seaweeds can grow on structures such as piers, slipways, fish farm cages and boat hulls or get tangled in boat propellers